I haven't seen prices skyrocket from brands generally supported on the forum. I can't speak for any other company, but material costs have all gone up (some by up to 50%), min wage (in CA - where I am) has gone up about 30% in the last 3 years. Leases have all jumped (40% where I am over the last 6 years). shipping costs have taken a pretty good hike, etc...a good question, how are companies absorbing these costs while still keeping retail prices relatively constant? That also means that there's not as much room for those crazy sales.